Proposed Changes to Council Rating System

Council is proposing changes to its long-standing rating system and is appealing to the community to provide feedback. The community is an integral stakeholder in this process and its feedback will play a critical role in informing future Council decision-making. The aim is to ensure the delivery of fairness and sustainability in its property rating system.

Council understands the current rating system no longer reflects the needs of a growing community and diverse property landscape. This position was informed by a comprehensive review conducted in 2024. Council seeks a system that is equitable and relevant for all ratepayers. The review, which is the focus of this consultation, will not result in additional Council income; rather, it identifies that a change of model may be required.

Through a series of workshops and public consultations, Council critically considered various rating methods, proposed changes and their potential impacts. Findings from these discussions are detailed in a final consultation paper that is available for public review.

To support the engagement process, two drop-in information sessions will be held at the Local Government Centre located at 2 Seventh Street, Murray Bridge. Ratepayers can meet with Council staff to review their property details and understand the impact of the proposed changes.

Drop-in Information Session Details:

• Tuesday 11 March 2025 between 2.00 pm – 5.00 pm
• Tuesday 18 March 2025 between 9.00 am – 12.00 pm
• After-hours sessions are available by appointment only from Monday to Thursday, starting Tuesday 11 March. To schedule an appointment, please call 8539 1100 or email council@murraybridge.sa.gov.au .

Community members are encouraged to attend and ask questions during these information sessions.

The consultation closes on Tuesday 25 March 2025. Following this process, Council will review all feedback before making a final decision, with the possibility of further changes based on community input. If endorsed, it is proposed the changes will be implemented within the 2025/26 financial year.

A Public Council Meeting to hear verbal submissions as part of the consultation process, will be held on Monday 24 March 2025, at 7:00 pm in the Council Chambers, Local Government Centre, 2 Seventh Street, Murray Bridge. Community members are invited to address the Council directly and share their views on the proposed changes to Council’s rating system.